Dry eye disease is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears are of poor quality.
Tears are necessary for maintaining the health of the eye and for providing clear vision. Dry eye disease can cause symptoms such as burning, itching, redness, and a feeling of grittiness or sand in the eye. It can also lead to more serious problems, such as corneal ulcers and vision loss.
There is no cure for dry eye disease, but it can be managed with treatments that help to relieve symptoms and prevent further damage to the eye. One of the over-the-counter treatments for this problem was EzriCare artificial tears, but this has recently been discontinued after one person died and at least three others are left with permanent vision loss because of a bacterial infection possibly linked to the brand.
In the blog, we will look more in depth at dry eye disease, EzriCare, and inform you how you can claim compensation with Pogust Goodhead if you have been affected.
Overview of Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease (DED) is a condition that results when the tears that lubricate and protect the eye are insufficient or of poor quality. Tears are produced by the lacrimal glands located above each eye, as well as by other tear-secreting glands in the eyelids and conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the white part of the eye (sclera). The tears then drain into small ducts in the inner corner of each eyelid, called puncta, and from there into the nose.
Dry eye can be a chronic or intermittent condition that causes discomfort and can interfere with normal activities such as reading, using computers, or driving. It can also lead to more serious problems, such as corneal ulcers or infections.
Causes of Dry Eye Disease
The most common cause of dry eyes is ageing. As we get older, our bodies produce fewer tears. Other causes include environmental factors such as windy or dry conditions; smoking; certain medications (such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications); medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome; hormonal changes due to menopause or pregnancy; and long-term use of contact lenses.
Treatments for Dry Eye Disease
Treatment for dry eye disease depends on the severity of the condition. For many mild cases, over-the-counter treatment is sufficient in helping manage the effects of dry eyes.
One of the popular brands for achieving this was EzriCare Artificial Tears. EzriCare Artificial Tears are a type of OTC artificial tear that comes in both a preservative-free single-use container and a multi-use bottle with preservatives.
Both types of EzriCare Artificial Tears are used to relieve dryness and discomfort of the eyes caused by decreased tear production associated with Demodex blepharitis, Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), environmental conditions, contact lens wear, post-LASIK surgery, and certain medications.
EzriCare artificial tears are designed to be used as a temporary measure to relieve dry eye symptoms. However, if used for too long, they can actually cause more harm than good.
In 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended that people discontinue using EzriCare artificial tears after reports of vision loss and, in one case, death, were linked to the product.
Action for those affected by EzriCare
After learning about the terrible effects of EzriCare artificial tears, Pogust Goodhead made the decision to file a lawsuit on behalf of all those affected by the product.
If you or a loved one has suffered after using EzriCare artificial tears, you may be owed compensation.
Compensation could cover the following:
- Time lost at work
- Hospitalization due to illness
- Loss of life
- Pain and suffering
- More
Head to MyEzriCareClaim.com today to register your interest and speak to a member of our legal team.
Who are Pogust Goodhead?
Pogust Goodhead is a law firm dedicated to protecting the rights of those who have been harmed by products like EzriCare Artificial Tears.
We specialize in large-scale mass and group litigation against companies and organizations that mistreat, mislead, or injure people.
Our firm has a history of litigating and securing victories against countless major pharmaceutical and medical device companies, and we bring decades of experience in dealing with these sensitive issues.
We are presently active as lead counsel in mass tort and group action lawsuits against large multinational corporations in both the United States and United Kingdom, and proudly represent individuals around the world in injury and malfeasance cases.